Cabin accommodations around Greenwood, California provide direct access to the American River and surrounding Sierra foothills. Most campgrounds in this region sit between 900-1,200 feet elevation with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F with occasional snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Gold panning opportunities: Visitors to Coloma Resort can experience California's gold rush heritage firsthand. "If you ever want to experience the thrill of gold panning, and California history go here! You will not strike it rich, but with a couple hours of effort you can get a nice little bottle of gold flakes to take home with you," notes one camper.
Whitewater activities: The American River provides excellent water recreation options. At American River Resort, guests have front-row access to rapids. "Campground was clean and well taken care of. It is right in the American River and next to a class 3 rapid called Trouble Maker. It was awesome watching rafters and kayakers go through it," reports one visitor.
Historical exploration: The historic town of Coloma offers educational opportunities within walking distance of several cabin rentals. "The campground is walking distance from the historic town of Coloma and the Argonaut for breakfast and lunch (and Gelato!)" mentions a recent visitor to Coloma Resort.
What campers like
Riverfront accommodations: Many cabin sites provide direct river access. "We were very skeptical of going during the ongoing COVID situation and we were amazed at how well this place was doing to help. Bathrooms smelled like Clorox every morning (good thing, means they were cleaning often) staff used mask at all times. The River was not crowded at all and when people did get near by they would respect each other's boundaries and not crowd up. Our site was perfectly shaded and good sized right on the waterfront," reports a guest at Coloma Resort.
Diverse lodging options: Camp Lotus offers varying accommodations beyond standard cabins. "Had a wonderful time at Camp Lotus! Staff is very nice. Appreciate the grassy camping spots, showers, and restrooms! For your convenience, there is an on-site deli that serves breakfast, lunch, and pastries. There is also a store where they sell ice, drinks, ice cream, snacks, toiletries, and other items."
On-site amenities: Many cabin locations near Greenwood feature useful amenities. A visitor to Coloma Resort shares: "Pool, playground, basketball and soccer - will definitely be back with the kids soon." These facilities enhance the cabin rental experience during summer months.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabin rentals in the area book quickly during peak seasons. "This is a nice retreat. The spaces are a bit small but clean. The bathrooms are spotless and they offer a lot of amenities for families," notes a visitor to Coloma Resort.
Cabin sizes vary: Some cabins offer limited space while others accommodate larger groups. At Ghost Mountain RV Campground, a visitor reported: "We had a great long weekend with family. Our trailer, daughter's trailer and Son's Motorhome. Rainy on Saturday. All had a great time, especially the 2.5 year old granddaughter."
Cabin noise considerations: Sound transfer between units and surrounding activities can be an issue. "It's highly stimulating environment but everyone was very friendly. Definitely recommend visiting if you are able to make a reservation!" shares a Coloma Resort guest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several cabins near Greenwood offer specially designated children's areas. "This is a KOA campground... NOT! Dirty and grounds are full of sand burrs. Our dogs suffered daily with these in their paws," warns a visitor to Placerville RV Resort & Campground, highlighting the importance of checking pet policies and terrain.
Water safety: Cabins along the American River require vigilance with children. "The river was stunning and it was neat to walk across the bridge and check out the old historic mining town. We are going back in August and can't wait. Looking forward to rafting in the river!" shares a Coloma Resort visitor.
Pack appropriately: Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, requiring proper preparation. "It was incredibly hot when we were there so we spent most of our time lounging at the edge of the river. It really moved along and was fun to float down in a tube," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Ponderosa.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Riverfront cabin sites offer the best views but book earliest. "We stayed in spot 33 with a large group and didn't feel crowded. One concern was the road along the river view spots. It is one way and people were constantly going opposite directions. Plus others were trying to unload or pack up and would block the road with no room to go around," shares an American River Resort visitor.
Bring supplies: Most cabin rentals have limited refrigeration space. "This terrain is steep with mostly smaller sites. Water pressure is excellent. Our site had 30 amp only and I doubt any of them have 50 amp. The power is not good. I had to bypass the surge suppressor because it kept cutting out due to low voltage," reports an RVer at American River Resort.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs may have difficulty accessing some cabin areas. "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok," advises an American River Resort camper.
